Archive Assistant

About the Role

Liberty, a renowned London institution, is seeking a full-time Archive Assistant to join its vibrant Liberty Fabrics team. The role is based at the Great Marlborough Street design studios. You will play a crucial part in supporting the research, preservation, and promotion of Liberty's extensive textile archive, which boasts over 60,000 artworks collected since the company's founding in 1875. This position offers an excellent opportunity for an early-career professional to gain valuable experience within a globally recognized design brand, contributing to the legacy of 150 years of design innovation.

Responsibilities

• Undertake research for archive materials based on design briefs, utilizing the iBase collections management system.
• Manage and update archive records, and assist in the physical care of the collections, including potential visits to an off-site archive facility.
• Collaborate closely with design teams to organize, label, package, and archive artwork, fabric samples, and associated sales materials for upcoming seasonal collections.
• Support the processes for copyright clearance and due diligence.
• Provide assistance for archive-related visits, exhibitions, and special events.
• Address inquiries regarding the archive from internal departments, customers, and external collaborators.
• Conduct historical and contextual research to aid in product development, marketing initiatives, and storytelling efforts.
• Maintain inventory of archive supplies and process related invoices.

Requirements

• A background in art, design, archives, museums, or information management is preferred.
• Demonstrated experience in responding to creative briefs within a design-focused setting.
• Familiarity with collections care principles, including preventative conservation and proper object handling techniques.
• Previous experience working with museum or collections management databases.
• Exceptional organizational abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and a systematic approach to research and administrative tasks.
• Capacity to balance creative exploration with precise record-keeping.
• Comfort and proficiency in collaborative work across diverse teams in a dynamic, creative workplace.
• Knowledge of 19th and 20th-century British art and design history is considered an advantage.

Perks

• Opportunity to work within a globally recognized design brand.
• Gain experience in archival research and collections care.
• Collaborate with creative design teams.
• Contribute to the rich heritage of Liberty.

Eligibility

This role is ideal for an early-career professional in archives, museums, or information management seeking to enhance their expertise. Candidates with a background in art, design, archives, museums, or information management, and experience responding to creative briefs in a design-led environment are encouraged to apply. Knowledge of 19th and 20th-century British art and design history is a plus.

Additional Information

Liberty is committed to fostering an inclusive environment and is an equal opportunities employer. They actively oppose all forms of unlawful discrimination and are dedicated to creating a workplace where individuals from all backgrounds can flourish. The company strives to eliminate conscious and unconscious bias in its practices, ensuring fairness and respect for all employees, regardless of gender, race, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or belief.